Using Western Union in Argentina: A Practical Guide

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Western Union (WU) is one of the most reliable ways to receive money in Argentina. Unlike blue rate where you deal with physical bills, WU allows you to receive pesos at a WU location using your bank account.

With WU, you are sending money from yourself to yourself. In this case, you are sending money from your US bank account to yourself for picking up pesos at a WU location for a fee of about 4-6% transaction fee (~$15-$30 transaction fee for $250-$500 USD).

First-Time Setup

For the website, ensure you sign up in US version of site as it defaults your sending country from which site you register from. The app uses the country of where your apple account is registered so you will default correctly.

  1. Create your WU account online at westernunion.com/us (Use our referral link for $20 bonus)
  2. Link your bank account or debit card (debit recommended for instant transfers)
  3. Send money to receiver in Argentina

Understanding Fees and Saving Money

  • Fees increase with amount, but increases slow at higher amounts
  • Fees vary significantly between US users (some pay $15, others $30 for same transfer)
  • First withdrawal is free - try different email addresses
  • Test different banks if you have multiple accounts
  • Some users report lower fees using Apple Pay
  • Fees are much lower if initiated from a US WU location

Location Types

Larger Locations

  • Found in main commercial areas
  • Higher number of reviews (50+)
  • More pesos available
  • Usually don't exchange USD cash
  • Largest in CABA: Montevideo and Cordoba (9 windows)

Smaller Locations

  • Limited pesos for withdrawals
  • More likely to convert USD cash
  • May not have enough for $100+ withdrawals

Pickup Process Checklist

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (required)
  • MTCN number
  • Transfer amount
  • Sender's name (exactly as entered)
  • Buenos Aires address

At the Counter:

  • Start with "Puedo recibir dinero"
  • Ask about bill denominations: "¿Qué denominaciones de billetes tienen disponibles?"
  • Double-check all details match your passport exactly

Best Times to Visit:

  • Early morning (opening time) - shortest lines
  • 11 AM or 2 PM - good balance of money availability and wait times

Important Tips

  • Take precautions when leaving - using a taxi is recommended
  • Consider splitting large transfers into smaller amounts
  • Morning visits are generally smoother and safer
  • Save successful location addresses for future use
  • Download the WU app to check rates and track transfers
  • Always bring a backpack in case you end up with small bills
This guide is regularly updated based on user experiences. Remember that conditions and availability can change frequently in Argentina's dynamic environment.